Apple’s long-rumoured foldable iPhone appears to be moving closer to reality as reports suggest the device has entered early production testing. The upcoming device, widely referred to as the iPhone Fold, is expected to mark a major shift in Apple’s smartphone design strategy and could debut in the second half of 2026.
According to industry sources, Apple’s manufacturing partner Foxconn has begun trial production of the foldable handset. This phase is crucial as it allows the company to test manufacturing processes, improve build quality and address any potential technical challenges before full-scale production begins.
The device is expected to feature a book-style folding mechanism similar to existing foldable smartphones in the market. Leaks indicate that the iPhone Fold may include a large 7.8-inch internal display for immersive viewing along with a 5.5-inch external screen for everyday use when folded.
Apple is believed to have informed its supply chain partners about plans to begin shipments later in 2026, aligning with a possible launch event alongside its flagship iPhone lineup. However, earlier reports had suggested delays due to production complexities and lower manufacturing yields which could have pushed timelines further.
Despite these concerns, recent updates indicate that Apple is accelerating development and may be targeting significant production volumes. Reports suggest the company could secure up to 20 million display units from Samsung Display, signaling strong confidence in demand for the device.
The foldable iPhone is expected to represent one of the most significant design transformations in Apple’s history, going beyond incremental upgrades seen in previous models. Industry experts believe this move could also boost the popularity of foldable smartphones and encourage wider adoption across different form factors including potential flip-style variants.
In terms of pricing, the device is expected to sit in the premium segment with estimates suggesting a starting price close to 1999 dollars in global markets. This positions it as a high-end innovation aimed at early adopters and tech enthusiasts.
While Apple has not officially confirmed the product yet, growing reports from supply chain sources indicate that the foldable iPhone could soon become a major milestone in the evolution of smartphones.